Northern Ireland-based abnormal load specialist, Mar-Train Heavy Haulage, has taken delivery of a new five-axle extending step frame trailer, following the excellent performance of an almost identically specified unit delivered three years ago.

The 85-tonne gross weight trailer will be used to transport heavy-duty quarry equipment, including Terex crushers and screeners, around the UK and Europe.

Mar-Train Managing Director, Tim Martin, says: “We keep returning to Andover Trailers because they are always able to supply a trailer built specifically to our needs. We work within an extremely specialist environment and due to the sheer size of the equipment we move, its essential we have a trailer that can really stand up to the rigours of the job.

“We have had multiple assets from Andover Trailers since our first order back in 1993. The delivery of this latest unit continues the long-standing business relationship between our two companies.”

The 14.95m step frame is equipped with a low profile neck and has the ability to extend by 2.5m to accommodate longer machines – providing maximum flexibility for Mar-Train. Extending via two outer box beams the trailer offers higher strength precisely where it is required, supporting heavy machinery directly under the tracks.

The new trailer’s specification includes three fixed and two self-tracking steer axles, each manufactured by BPW and rated to 12 tonnes. BPW air suspension with raise/lower control is also fitted and can be used to lower the trailer for loading and unloading.

Additional features include Andover Trailers’ heavy-duty hydraulic power toe ramps which provide a low loading angle and four heavy-duty hydraulic steady legs to guarantee a stable loading platform. The trailer also benefits from galvanised side extensions, plus a convenient storage compartment for the side-extension timbers in the centre of the deck.

Andover Trailers has equipped the extending step frame with all round LED lighting and installed steel underlays to the beavertail and ramps to extend the life of the flooring timber.